9-year-old uses birthday to help Humane Society

Saturday

Sep 27, 2008 at 12:01 AMSep 27, 2008 at 11:50 AM

Courtney Brocato just turned 9. But instead of a traditional birthday party, she invited her friends to the Humane Society in Helena-West Helena, Ark., where the gifts were for the animals and not Courtney.

Michele Page

Courtney Brocato just turned 9.

But instead of a traditional birthday party, she invited her friends to the Humane Society in Helena-West Helena, Ark., where the gifts were for the animals and not Courtney.

“I was thinking I wanted to help,” she said as she and her friends stroked Red Riley, a very small puppy with a big heart who is looking for a home and who was in obvious puppy ecstasy from all the attention.

Susan Winston and Janelle Cobbs, members of the society, brought along Red Riley and Alex, another puppy in need of a home. While there, the two talked to the girls about responsible pet ownership and the importance of the work of the Humane Society.

Clay Cafe offered a party that little girls dream of, and participants made pottery in the shop. This particular group painted plates. Most of the girls’ projects featured the likeness of Red Riley and Alex.

Blankets, puppy treats, dog food, collars, leashes, food and water bowls along with some squeaky toys replaced the usual birthday gifts of Barbie dolls and Bratz.

The Humane Society is always seeking staples for their temporary shelter, Cobbs and Winston said. Both were very touched by Courtney's act of kindness.